FAQ'S
How fast will the SeaRey fly?
Top speed with the Rotax 912S is 113mph (98 knots). But this little aircraft is designed for you to enjoy the trip, not hurry to the destination. Cruise is around 90 mph (78 knots and is ideal for taking in the scenery and enjoying watching the world go by. Stall speed is about 40 mph (35 knots).
How long does it take to build?
We have found that a new builder might require 600 - 900 hours. The complexity of your instrument and electrical installation and other custom finishes will largely determine the total time. If you were to build “Full Time” it would take around 3 ½ months. Part time (weekends & evenings) usually can have your SeaRey completed in around 12 months.
How much fuel does it use? What is the fuel capacity?
Cruise fuel flow is about 4.5 gal/hr (17 litres/hr). Premium unleaded fuel is the recommended fuel for use in the Rotax engine. With the standard 18 gallon (68 litre tank), you'll have around 3 hours of flight time with reserves. The 26 gallon (98 litre) long range tank extends your range to well over 5 hours.
How do I order a kit and where is the kit manufactured?
You place your order for a kit with Progressive Aerodyne or your local dealer. There are numerous options to consider when ordering a kit, therefore it is a good idea to call us and a knowledgeable builder will guide you through this important process so you end up with exactly the options and components that you want to build into your dream machine.
How do I order a kit and where is the kit manufactured?
You place your order for a kit with Progressive Aerodyne or your local dealer. There are numerous options to consider when ordering a kit, therefore it is a good idea to call us and a knowledgeable builder will guide you through this important process so you end up with exactly the options and components that you want to build into your dream machine.
The kit is distributed from the factory plant in Tavares, FL, USA.
What are the covering and finishes?
The flying surfaces are fabric covered using the Poly-fiber material and finish by the Stitts Poly-Fiber System. This is an FAA approved aircraft covering system that has been in use on aircraft for many decades. All materials are provided in the kit, including the Silver coat of Poly-Spray UV protection. It even includes the covering manual which contains the step-by-step instructions with helpful photographs. There's no fiberglass work to do. The hull, turtle deck, and front deck are all pre-finished fiberglass with a slick gel coat finish. You don't even have to paint these parts if white is your basic paint scheme. If however you choose a carbon fiber hull, this will require painting.
Can the wings be folded on the SeaRey?
The wings do not fold; however two people can remove the wings in less than 30 minutes.
What does it cost to complete a SeaRey?
Finished costs vary significantly depending upon the engine chosen, the quality of finish required by the builder and the extent of the instruments, avionics and multitude of other options available.
Builders typically take great pride in how they customize and finish their SeaReys. However, on average a standard completed SeaRey is in the range of $70K - $100K depending on the engine and options.
Building a SeaRey is made even more affordable by only requiring an initial outlay of around $35,000 in the first year or so to complete the airframe. The balance of the budget is required near the end of the building program when it comes time to add the engine, electrical and instruments etc.
How do I pay for a SeaRey?
A $5,000 deposit is your initial investment at time of order. Upon receipt of this deposit, the factory allocates a position on the production line and the commencement of filling your order begins. The balance of payment is due when the kit is ready for shipment from the factory.
Is there builder assistance available?
Yes, Progressive Aerodyne will be there to provide assistance to help you complete your plane. A builder support telephone line is provided to answer your questions as you build. There is also a very active SeaRey builder’s website that is customer owned and operated.
Where does the landing gear go when you land on the water?
All three landing gear wheels retract. The main gear rises straight up and stows just under the two wing struts. The tail wheel retracts forward and stows up under the aft boom tube. Gear operation is electric.
Can you open the canopy during flight?
Both canopies can be opened during flight at any speed or altitude. It has been said that the SeaRey is like the “Harley Davidson” of the sky. The SeaRey’s sliding canopy design is also a very important safety feature for emergency egress from the aircraft in the event of upset during water operations.
What kind of engine does the kit manufacturer recommend?
The Rotax 912, 912S or the turbo-charged 914 are the recommended engines for the SeaRey. These engines have proven themselves to be highly reliable, with an enviable safety record.
What is the takeoff roll?
The normal takeoff distance for the SeaRey is around 375 ft or around 115 meters. Seaplanes usually use time as a measure for water takeoff since distance markers are not available. A SeaRey water takeoff will be about six-eight seconds. In most cases the land and water takeoff runs are the same distance.
How much does the SeaRey weigh and how much can it carry in useful load?
If you build your SeaRey prudently, your empty weight will be around 870 lbs (395kg). The maximum gross weight of a SeaRey is 1430 lbs (650kg). This gives a useful load of about 438 lbs (199kg). In other words two average people, a full tank of gas and about 30 lbs (14kg) of baggage. An optional lightweight carbon fiber hull is available which reduces the empty weight by a further 30 lbs (14kg) approximately.
What are the general rules for landing on the water?
The rules vary somewhat depending on the state or country. In the US, the Seaplane Pilots Association is an excellent resource for pilots. They publish a directory of lakes and their regulations for the entire country so there is no doubt about what to do or don’t do.
How much baggage can I carry?
There is a substantial baggage compartment deck located behind the two seats. There is ample space for overnight bags, camping equipment etc. There is also additional room in the nose compartment. Baggage compartment loads of around 60 lbs (27kg) are typical.
How does the SeaRey exit the water to the shoreline after a water touchdown/alighting?
A SeaRey taxing out of the water is always a crowd stopper. At idle speed, the undercarriage is lowered while still in the water. As you approach the beach or ramp, hold the stick back and add power to drive out of the water. Be careful not to blast sand into the spectator’s eyes or their lunch.
How much room do I need to build the SeaRey?
Ideally a standard two-car garage is more than adequate. However, with a bit of juggling, it is possible to build a SeaRey in a single-car garage.